Falling can happen to anyone, at any time. Knowing how to safely and effectively help someone who has fallen is a crucial life skill. This guide will walk you through the steps, ensuring both your safety and the safety of the fallen person.
Assessing the Situation: Before You Help
Before rushing to help, take a moment to assess the situation. This crucial first step can prevent further injuries.
1. Check for Immediate Dangers:
- Is the environment safe? Are there any hazards like oncoming traffic, broken glass, or unstable surfaces that could endanger you or the fallen person? If so, address these dangers first, if possible, before approaching.
- Is the fallen person conscious and responsive? A gentle touch or call will help determine their level of consciousness.
2. Call for Help:
- Emergency Services: If the person is unconscious, seriously injured (bleeding heavily, difficulty breathing, etc.), or you're unsure how to help, call emergency services immediately. Don't delay.
- Bystanders: If the situation isn't immediately life-threatening, enlist the help of bystanders. Having extra hands can make the lifting process much safer and easier.
Safely Assisting the Fallen Person: The Lifting Techniques
Once you've assessed the situation and called for help if necessary, you can begin to assist the fallen person. The lifting technique will depend on their condition and your physical capabilities.
1. For Conscious and Relatively Uninjured Individuals:
- Communication is key: Talk to the person, explaining what you're going to do before you start lifting. This helps them relax and cooperate.
- Proper Lifting Technique: Avoid bending over at the waist. Instead, bend at your knees and hips, keeping your back straight. Get as close to the person as possible.
- Strategic Lifting: Use your legs, not your back, to lift. Have the person use their arms to help if possible. If they're able, have them push themselves up slightly.
- Controlled Movement: Lift slowly and steadily, avoiding any jerky movements that could cause further pain or injury. Lift to a stable position. A chair or bench can be helpful.
2. For Unconscious or Seriously Injured Individuals:
Do NOT attempt to move them unless absolutely necessary. Moving a seriously injured person could worsen their condition. Wait for emergency medical services to arrive.
- Maintain Airway: If the person is unconscious, check their airway and breathing. If necessary, gently tilt their head back to open their airway (unless you suspect a neck injury).
- Monitor Vital Signs: Keep an eye on their breathing and pulse until help arrives.
- Keep Them Warm: If possible, cover them with a blanket to help prevent hypothermia.
Post-Fall Care
After helping the person up, or after emergency services have arrived, consider the following:
- Monitor for worsening symptoms: Even if the person seems fine initially, keep an eye out for any worsening symptoms like increased pain, dizziness, or nausea.
- Seek Medical Attention: Depending on the nature of the fall, it’s wise to seek medical attention even if there are no apparent injuries. A doctor can assess for internal injuries or other issues.
- Report the Incident: If the fall occurred due to a hazard in the environment, report it to the appropriate authorities (e.g., building management, city council).
Preventing Falls: Proactive Measures
Preventing falls is the best approach. Here are some tips:
- Maintain good balance and strength: Regular exercise helps improve balance and strength, reducing the risk of falls.
- Clear clutter from walkways: Keep your home and surroundings free of tripping hazards.
- Use assistive devices: If needed, use assistive devices like canes or walkers to improve stability.
- Address vision and hearing problems: Poor vision or hearing can increase the risk of falls.
Knowing how to help someone who has fallen can make a significant difference. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can effectively assist and potentially prevent further harm. Remember, when in doubt, call for professional help.
